The company's documentary arm, NBC Sports Films, is to produce a roster of long-form projects throughout the year, and will debut in June with Center of Attention: The Unreal Life of Derek Sanderson.

NBC Sports Group is venturing into sports documentaries with the launch of NBC Sports Films, and will roll out a slate of long-form projects throughout the year.

Films are to air across NBC Sports Group platforms, including NBC, NBCSN, NBC Sports Regional Networks and NBC Sports Digital.

The initiative’s first project, the hour-long doc Center of Attention: The Unreal Life of Derek Sanderson(pictured), chronicles the life and career of former NHL star Derek Sanderson, and will debut on NBCSN on June 8.

The film – which is narrated by Mad Men actor John Slattery - traces Sanderson’s career from two-time Stanley Cup champion to homeless alcoholic and, eventually, a financial adviser to athletes. It features interviews with eight members of the Hockey Hall of Fame, including Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito, Rod Gilbert, Gerry Cheevers, Brad Park, Bernie Parent and coaches Harry Sinden and Emile Francis.

“Storytelling has always been a prominent component of NBC Sports’ coverage of signature events. We are excited to expand those efforts and further serve our audience by providing additional long-form content across all NBC Sports Group platforms,” said Mark Levy, senior VP of original productions and creative at NBC Sports Group, in a statement.